I am greatly disappointed in the recent action by the Ramapo Central school board to "table" the decision on veterans' tax exemptions pending possible state funding. In their open letter dated Feb. 17, the board said, "The question ... how we as Board can recognize their service while not making the tax burden for our other residents even more difficult. Among our residents there are many who now struggle to pay their taxes."

While I am extremely sympathetic with the fiscal constraints facing all residents, there are some distinctions that should be made:

• Veterans' burdens were more difficult than those who have not served; many combat veterans suffered injury, both physical and psychological, while the vast majority of residents did not.

• Veterans endured long separations from family and home, while the majority of the residents did not.

• Veterans suffered financial and civilian career loss during their years of military service while the vast majority of residents did not.

It must also be emphasized that many combat veterans (pre-1973) were involuntarily conscripted into military service.

The board's excuse is insulting to those who have already made great and life-altering sacrifices for their fellow residents.

To make no decision is tantamount to denying the exemption. Shame on the board for taking the easy way out; thank God our disabled combat veterans (myself included) did not!